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Once again, another fruitful year in extreme music draws to a close. We saw some long awaited comebacks by legends, three quarters of the original SABBATH line up, VOIVOD and CARCASS. The godfathers of U.S. death metal had a healthy year with strong releases by SUFFOCATION, DEICIDE, and IMMOLATION. We also saw young superstars, GHOST B.C. and KVELERTAK, release good sophomore albums. Perhaps the most polarizing and criticized album is SATYRICON‘s self-titled album, which was roasted by the majority of the media and fans.

Among the mountains of releases, there is one album that we’ll gush about again and again, and that’s CARCASS‘ comeback album, Surgical Steel. There are always good and interesting albums coming out all the time, and then there are the untouchable albums that only the legendary bands could create. Surgical Steel scorches everything in its path and clearly shows that in the pantheon of active bands, they are at the top.

Remember the good old 90’s and early 2000’s when a plethora of metalcore, mathcore, post-hardcore, etc. were busting out so many underground gems? Well, that fine tradition continues thanks to Winnipeg, Canada heroes, KEN MODE.

KEN MODE‘s dynamic range and overall musicality is what continues to distinguish them from any perceivable peers. You’d be hard pressed to be able to predict what comes next on Entrench. The best way to summarize Entrench is “atmosphere.”

The band can crash and bash with anyone (i.e. “Counter Culture Complex” and “Your Heartwarming Story Makes Me Sic“) but it’s the unique way in which they create atmosphere that is the most compelling trait. KEN MODE show no interest in creating fleeting, temporary impressions. They are focused on only dishing out compelling songs. Be sure to check out “Romeo Must Never Know,” “Figure Your Life Out,” and “Monomyth.”

Entrench also has a good mix and song order to keep you on your toes and not fall into a lull of up tempo poly rhythms or slower, chunkier songs.

Any further description or analysis would only delay you from checking out one of the best albums of 2013. Also, make sure to catch these road warriors when they come through your town. (Season of Mist)